Easter is right around the corner, and if you’re a parent, you might be wondering: Are easter eggs safe for babies? Can babies choke on easter eggs? Are hot cross buns safe for babies? Can babies choke on hot cross buns? Let's face it, the Easter Bunny is making its way into stores, and it’s hard to ignore all the chocolatey goodness and delicious baked treats. But if your baby is still in the early years, how do you navigate this sugar-filled holiday? Well, don’t worry – we’ve got the lowdown on all things Easter eggs, hot cross buns, choking risks, added sugar, and what’s best for your little one. No guilt, no judgement – just the facts to help you make informed decisions and do what feels right for you and your bub.
Babies Under 2 Years – Can They Have a Taste?
Can babies have easter eggs? The main thing to remember when it comes to feeding your little one chocolate or sweet treats before they turn 2 is that it’s generally recommended to avoid added sugar. For the first couple of years of life, your bub’s body is doing an extreme amount of growing and developing, and added sugars don’t provide much nutritional value.
That being said, if you decide to let your little one try a small taste of a safely prepared Easter egg, that’s entirely up to you. A tiny amount of chocolate, given safely and in moderation, won’t harm them in the long run. But, if you’d rather hold off, that’s perfectly fine too. You’re the expert on your bub and what feels right for them. There’s no need to rush into introducing sweets. Take your time, and remember, there are plenty of other ways to make Easter special without added sugar!
Best Easter Eggs for Little Ones
We all know that Easter eggs come in all shapes and sizes, but not all of them are safe for little ones. The firm texture and round shape of some Easter eggs can pose a choking hazard for young children. If you’d like to let your little one join in, the safest option is to choose a large, hollow Easter egg. Once you’ve got that big egg, make sure to break it up. This makes it easier for your little one to nibble without the risk of choking.
Tip: Always stay close and supervise your bub while they’re eating to keep an eye on how they’re handling the chocolate.
Easter Eggs to Avoid for Bubs Under 4 Years
Some Easter eggs aren’t safe for little ones under the age of 4. Here’s a list of Easter treats you should steer clear of:
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Mini Easter eggs (like the Cadbury mini egg range flooding the supermarkets at the moment) – These little eggs are the perfect size to block your bub’s airway if they accidentally swallow them whole.
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Marshmallow eggs – Their sticky, gooey texture can easily get lodged in your bub’s throat and make them a choking hazard.
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Cadbury Creme eggs – These creamy-filled delights are another choking risk because of their gooey filling and size.
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Easter eggs with fillings (like M&Ms) – The hard candies inside can break off and pose a choking risk for little ones.
With Easter festivities, party platters, and excited kids running around with their loot, it’s easy to overlook the sneaky choking hazards that come with the celebration. Mini solid eggs, marshmallow eggs, and creme eggs might seem like a fun treat, but they can quickly become a safety concern for little ones under 4.
Also, keep a lookout for party platters filled with raw veggies, whole nuts, whole grapes, berries, or bowls of popcorn. These can easily be grabbed by curious little hands and pose a choking risk.
What About Hot Cross Buns?
Can babies have hot cross buns? Let’s talk about those delicious, sweet, spicy treats – hot cross buns. These are often a favourite during Easter, but what about the added sugar and other ingredients that might not be ideal for your baby?
Hot cross buns usually contain added sugar, highly processed vegetable oils, and extra food additives, which aren’t necessary for your baby's growth and development.
While it’s okay to give your little one a small taste of hot cross bun, ensure you prepare them safely for babies under 12 months by toasting them well to avoid them glogging up in baby's mouth and posing a choking risk. Also avoid hot cross buns large pieces of dried fruit, candied fruit, citrus peels, nuts or seeds. Make sure to double check the ingredients for any honey, as it poses a risk of botulism for bubs under 12 months.
Healthier Hot Cross Bun Alternatives
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you’re in luck! There are alternatives out there that have less sugar, healthier oils, and fewer additives. Specialty grocers and local health food stores often carry some great options. Brands like Ancient Grains and Healthy Bake offer hot cross buns that use olive oil instead of vegetable oils, and they typically contain less sugar.
These healthier versions can be a great option for when you want to treat your little one to an easter delicacy while still sticking to more nourishing choices. And if you’re really keen on keeping things healthy, you could even try making your own hot cross buns at home with minimal sugar and healthier ingredients.
A Few Tips for a Safe Easter
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Supervision is key! Always stay close while your little one is eating, especially when introducing new foods like Easter eggs and hot cross buns. This helps prevent choking and ensures they’re eating safely.
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Size matters! If you do decide to give your bub some Easter egg or hot cross bun, make sure to break it into small, manageable pieces to avoid choking hazards.
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No rush with the sweets. If you’re not sure about giving your little one sweets yet, there’s no harm in waiting. Easter can still be fun with activities, cuddles, and safe treats.
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Make it special without the sugar. There are plenty of ways to celebrate without relying on chocolate and sugar-filled treats. Think Easter-themed crafts, an Easter egg hunt with safe toys, or a family picnic.
Easter can be a fun, festive time for the whole family, including your little one. While Easter eggs and hot cross buns may be tempting, it’s essential to be mindful of choking risks and the impact of added sugar on your bub. There’s no need to feel pressured to give your little one treats – it’s all about what feels right for you and your family.
At the end of the day, Easter is about celebrating together, making memories, and enjoying each other’s company. Whether you decide to give your bub a taste of chocolate or wait until they’re a little older, know that you’re doing great. Stay informed, stay safe, and most importantly, enjoy the holiday season with your family.
*Please note, our advice is general in nature and should not replace any advice provided to you by your health professional. Ensure your bub is over 4 months old and is showing signs of readiness before starting solids. If you have any concerns about your bubs health or development consult your GP or other health professional.*
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